Governor Chukwuma Soludo has received an award from Leadership Scorecard Magazine for his significant contributions to the growth and development of democracy in Nigeria.
Governor Soludo received the award in Abuja during a public lecture organized by the magazine to honour General Abdulsalami Abubabakar, Nigeria’s Head of State between 1998 and 1999.
The public lecture with the theme: “Democracy in A frica: The Legacy of Abdulsalami Abubabakar” was part of activities celebrating the institutionalization of democracy in Nigeria since 1999, and especially the roles General Abubabakar played in midwifing the fourth republic and is playing in strengthening democratic institutions and peaceful elections in Nigeria.
The famous Pan-Africanist, Kenyan lawyer and activist, Professor Patrick Lumumba, delivered the keynote speech at the event.
Receiving the award presented by the Emeritus Catholic Archbishop of Abuja, John Cardinal Onayiekan, Governor Soludo, represented by his Commissioner for Special Duties, Barrister Beverly Ikpeazu-Nkemdiche, stated that since the inception of his government, he has been committed to reforms that lay the foundation for a new Anambra that is built on strong institutions, which is the hallmark of democracy.
The Governor stated that giving voice to the voiceless, creating access to quick dispensation of justice, prioritizing the welfare of the weak and the vulnerable, and creating a social order of equality and equity define the policies of his administration in Anambra; which are central to building trust among the electorate – “the only kingmakers in a democracy”.
He listed some of the major achievements of his government such as the introduction of free education in all basic public schools; free delivery services for women; transformation of South East’s most populous slum in Okpoko into a new heaven; construction of over 500 kilometers of roads, which is opening access to rural and most marginalized communities.
Others are reforms in the justice system; the recent passage of Anambra Electoral Bill 2024, an executive bill that will strengthen the local government system and bring governance closer to people; and many others as ways his government demonstrate the true face of democracy, which is to listen to the needs of the majority and not neglect the cries of the minority.
Other awardees at the event were Governors Hyacinth Alia of Benue State; Caleb Muftwang of Plateau State; Dikko Umaru Radda of Katsina State; Babagana Zulum of Borno State and Seyi Makinde of Oyo state.
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